Stalking

A person commits the crime of stalking by either

engaging in a course of conduct or repeatedly committing acts towards another person, including following that person, in a manner which shows either an intent to place that other person in reasonable fear of bodily injury or to cause that person substantial emotion distress OR

engaging in a course of conduct or repeatedly communicating to another person in a manner which demonstrates or communicates either an intent to place the other person in reasonable fear of bodily injury to cause substantial emotional distress to the other person

Course of conduct is defined as a pattern of actions with more than one act over any period of time which shows a continuity of conduct.

Stalking is a recidivist crime which means that the penalties are enhanced for subsequent convictions. A first conviction for stalking is graded as a misdemeanor of the first degree with a maximum sentence of 5 years of incarceration and a $10,000 fine. However, if a person has been previously convicted of a crime of violence involving the same victim, a first conviction for stalking is a felony of the third degree with a maximum sentence of 7 years of incarceration and a $15,000 fine. A second or subsequent conviction for stalking is also a felony of the third degree.

It is very important that you speak to an attorney about how best to handle your case. Call our criminal defense lawyers in Reading, PA at 610-372-5128 or submit your case on the "Ask an attorney" link.